As the severity of the pandemic continues to negatively affect lives, both socially and economically, the volunteers of Sikh Society of Central Florida, and UNITED SIKHS took up an endeavor to deliver food and supplies to Seminole High School, Ridgewood Ave, Sanford, Florida.
In addition to the donation made by UNITED SIKHS, Sam’s Club of Sanford also contributed $500 to help restock the school pantry with supplies. This drive was conducted in response to help children whose parents lost their employment due to the outbreak of COVID-19. UNITED SIKHS met with Dr. Jordan Rodriguez, School Principal and Dr. Tina Calderon, School Board Member. It was gathered that the school’s pantry was severely affected due to the current circumstances, as Calderon quoted, “It’s absolutely necessary to be able to support all of our children and families here in Seminole County, and even before the Coronavirus, there was a significant need in the community. The food will make a big impact.”
State Representative, David Smith, Colonel, USMC (Rtd.) collaborated with UNITED SIKHS and appreciated the restocking drive, stating,
“It has been a true pleasure to work with UNITED SIKHS to help local families throughout the COVID-19 crisis. Restocking the shelves of the Seminole High School food pantry was an act of pure kindness. The friendship and support of UNITED SIKHS during these difficult times is greatly appreciated.”
– David Smith, Colonel, USMC (Rtd.), State Representative, House District 28, Florida
Calderon expressed that this food donation drive by UNITED SIKHS along with the help of State Representative, David Smith was very well received by the school. She further went on to say,
“Before this crisis nearly 50% of the students were on free and reduced lunch, and now the numbers have surely increased”.
– Dr. Tina Calderone, School Board Member
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, UNITED SIKHS has dedicatedly distributed food supplies and other basic provisions to families who cannot afford to stock up their shelves for an undetermined amount of time. Channi Kaur, on the Advisory Board to UNITED SIKHS said, “The Sikh spirit to serve at this hour brings us together. Food pantry’s for children need your help. We stand in solidarity with our families to support our children and their families”
The President of the Sikh Society of Central Florida, S. Ishwar Singh said, “Covid-19 has crossed more than 100,000 deaths in the United States alone but I know that the day is not far when we will win over this virus. The SSCF and UNITED SIKHS have collaborated to help refill the depleted food pantries of Seminole county public system. The SSCF has opened its doors for free vegetarian meals. Anyone who is hungry during the Covid 19 crises can call +1-407-366-3136 or also the UNITED SIKHS helpline 1-855-US-UMEED (1-855-78-6333).
The goal is to improve quality of life in times of a crisis and the organization aims to continue supporting the larger cause of humanity across the globe. We would like to thank all our supporters for the constant encouragement and the push to strive harder.
Issued By
Gurvinder Singh
Global Director, Sikh Aid
UNITED SIKHS
P: +1-469-222-6288
F: +1-810-885-4264
Recognize the Human Race as One
